Deliveries down, billings up for GA industry

Just released figures from the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) show that in the first half of 2010, total general aviation airplane shipments fell 9.8%, from 1,039 airplanes in 2009 to 937 this year. Billings for general aviation airplanes totaled $9.40 billion in the second quarter of 2010, up 0.2%. This is the second consecutive quarter that industry billings have risen.

“As general aviation manufacturers continue looking towards recovery from the economic downturn, it remains critical that pro-growth, pro-manufacturing policies like bonus depreciation that promote aircraft purchases and stimulate job creation be put in place,” said Pete Bunce, GAMA president and CEO. “As the global economic recovery picks up steam, markets outside of North America continue to hold promise for renewed growth in our industry.”

Piston-powered airplane shipments totaled 425, compared to 434 delivered in the first half of 2009, a 2.1% decrease. Turboprop shipments declined 17.8% from 191 in the first six months last year to 157 in 2010. Business jet shipments totaled 355 units, a 14.3% over the 414 jets delivered during this same period in 2009.